Roof mounting system

ABSTRACT

A roof mount assembly mounts a structure to a roof having a rafter and a substrate supported by the rafter. The roof mount assembly includes a piece of flashing positioned on the substrate. The flashing includes a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surface and an aperture extending through the flashing. A fastener extends through the flashing aperture. A bracket is connected to the flashing via the fastener, and the bracket is sized to support at least one roof-mounted structure on the roof. A seal is positioned between the flashing aperture and the fastener. The seal is sized to form a water-tight seal with the aperture to inhibit flow of fluid through the aperture. The seal includes a first portion and a second portion, in which the first portion is positioned to abut the flashing first surface and the second portion is positioned to extend through the aperture.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/752,667 filed on Jan. 26, 2020 and issued as U.S. Pat. No.______, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/051,479, filed on Jul. 31, 2018 and issued as U.S. Pat. No.10,594,251, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/942,265, filed on Mar. 30, 2018 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,218,304,which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/711,745,filed on Sep. 21, 2017 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,090,801, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/461,166, filed onMar. 16, 2017 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,793,853, which is a continuationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/229,974, filed on Aug. 5, 2016issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,774,292, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/003,472, filed on Jan. 21, 2016 issued asU.S. Pat. No. 9,422,723, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/813,199 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,422,721, filedJul. 30, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 14/253,687, filed Apr. 15, 2014 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,127,464,which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/271,650,filed Oct. 12, 2011 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,701,354, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/166,542, filed Jun.22, 2011 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,146,299, which is a continuation ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/914,209, filed Oct. 28, 2010 issuedas U.S. Pat. No. 8,209,914, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/727,726, filed Mar. 19, 2010 issued asU.S. Pat. No. 8,153,700, which claims priority to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 61/161,668, filed Mar. 19, 2009, the entirecontents of all of which are herein incorporated by reference. U.S.patent application Ser. No. 12/914,209 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,209,914also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos.61/298,101, filed Jan. 25, 2010, and 61/345,885, filed May 18, 2010, theentire contents of both of which are herein incorporated by reference.

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/752,667 filed on Jan. 26, 2020 and issued as U.S. Pat. No.______, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/051,479, filed on Jul. 31, 2018 and issued as U.S. Pat. No.10,594,251, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/942,265, filed on Mar. 30, 2018 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,218,304,which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/711,745,filed on Sep. 21, 2017 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,090,801, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/461,166, filed onMar. 16, 2017 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,793,853, which is a continuationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/229,974, filed on Aug. 5, 2016issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,774,292, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/003,472, filed on Jan. 21, 2016 issued asU.S. Pat. No. 9,422,723, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/813,199, filed Jul. 30, 2015 issued as U.S. Pat.No. 9,422,721, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 14/253,687, filed Apr. 15, 2014 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,127,464,which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/271,650,filed Oct. 12, 2011 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,701,354, which is also acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/914,209, filed Oct.28, 2010 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,209,914, which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/727,726issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,153,700, filed Mar. 19, 2010, which claimspriority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/161,668, filedMar. 19, 2009, the entire contents of all of which are hereinincorporated by reference. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/914,209issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,209,914 also claims priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application Nos. 61/298,101, filed Jan. 25, 2010, and61/345,885, filed May 18, 2010, the entire contents of both of which areherein incorporated by reference.

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/752,667 filed on Jan. 26, 2020 and issued as U.S. Pat. No.______, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/051,479, filed on Jul. 31, 2018 and issued as U.S. Pat. No.10,594,251, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/942,265, filed on Mar. 30, 2018 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,218,304,which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/711,745,filed on Sep. 21, 2017 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,090,801, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/461,166, filed onMar. 16, 2017 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,793,853, which is a continuationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/229,974, filed on Aug. 5, 2016issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,774,292, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/003,472, filed on Jan. 21, 2016 issued asU.S. Pat. No. 9,422,723, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/813,199, filed Jul. 30, 2015 issued as U.S. Pat.No. 9,422,721, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 14/253,687, filed Apr. 15, 2014 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,127,464,which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/271,650,filed Oct. 12, 2011 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,701,354, which is also acontinuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/166,378,filed Jun. 22, 2011 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,151,522, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/727,726, filed Mar.19, 2010 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,153,700, which claims priority toU.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/161,668, filed Mar. 19, 2009,the entire contents of all of which are herein incorporated byreference.

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/752,667 filed on Jan. 26, 2020 and issued as U.S. Pat. No.______, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.16/051,479, filed on Jul. 31, 2018 and issued as U.S. Pat. No.10,594,251, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/942,265, filed on Mar. 30, 2018 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,218,304,which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/711,745,filed on Sep. 21, 2017 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,090,801, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/461,166, filed onMar. 16, 2017 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,793,853, which is a continuationof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/229,974, filed on Aug. 5, 2016issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,774,292, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 15/003,472, filed on Jan. 21, 2016 issued asU.S. Pat. No. 9,422,723, which is a continuation of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/813,199, filed Jul. 30, 2015 issued as U.S. Pat.No. 9,422,721, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 14/253,687, filed Apr. 15, 2014 and issued as U.S. Pat. No.9,127,464, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/271,650, filed Oct. 12, 2011 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,701,354, whichis also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.12/727,726 issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,153,700, filed Mar. 19, 2010, whichclaims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/161,668,filed Mar. 19, 2009, the entire contents of all of which are hereinincorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to roofing systems and roof-mountedfixtures and methods for assembling and installing the same.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a roof mount assembly is provided for mounting astructure to a roof, the roof including at least one rafter and asubstrate at least partially covering the at least one rafter. The roofmount assembly may generally include flashing positioned on thesubstrate, the flashing defining a first surface, a second surfaceopposite the first surface and an aperture extending therethrough; afastener extending through the aperture; a bracket connected to theflashing by the fastener, the bracket being configured to support atleast one roof-mounted structure on the roof; and a seal including afirst portion positionable between the first surface of the flashing andthe bracket and a second portion positionable to extend through theaperture and between the flashing and the fastener, the seal forming awater-tight seal to inhibit flow of fluid through the aperture.

In some embodiments, a method is provided for mounting a roof mountassembly to a roof, the roof including at least one rafter and asubstrate at least partially covering the at least one rafter. Themethod may generally include inserting a seal into an aperture definedin a flashing; positioning the flashing and the seal on the roof;positioning a bracket on the flashing; extending a fastener through thebracket, the flashing and the seal and into the at least one rafter;retaining the bracket, the flashing and the seal on the roof with thefastener; and inhibiting fluid flow through the aperture with the seal.

Independent aspects of the invention will become apparent byconsideration of the detailed description, claims and accompanyingdrawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top view of a roofing system according to some embodimentsof the present invention.

FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional view of the roofing system of FIG. 1, takenalong line A-A of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2 is a top view of flashing from the roofing system shown in FIG.1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the flashing shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a front view of the flashing shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the flashing shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 6 is a top view of a seal for use with the flashing shown in FIG.2.

FIG. 6A is a front view of an alternate seal for use with the flashingshown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 7-7 shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 7A is a bottom perspective view of the seal shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the seal shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 8A is a top perspective view of the seal shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 9 is a top view of the flashing of FIG. 2 with the seal shown inFIG. 6 installed in the aperture.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the flashing and seal shown in FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a front view of the flashing and seal shown in FIG. 9.

FIG. 12 is a side view of the flashing and seal shown in FIG. 9.

FIG. 13 is a side view of a bracket for use with the flashing and seal.

FIG. 13A is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the bracket.

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the bracket shown in FIG. 13.

FIG. 14A is a bottom view of the bracket shown in FIG. 13A.

FIG. 15 is a top view of an assembly including the flashing, the seal,the bracket and a fastener.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the assembly shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a front view of the assembly shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 18 is a side view of the assembly shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the assembly shown in FIG. 15.

FIG. 20 is a top view of a second embodiment of flashing according tothe present invention.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the flashing shown in FIG. 20.

FIG. 22 is a front view of the flashing shown in FIG. 20.

FIG. 23 is a side view of the flashing shown in FIG. 20.

FIG. 24 is a top view of the flashing shown in FIG. 20 including sealsinstalled in the flashing apertures.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the flashing and seals shown in FIG.24.

FIG. 26 is a front view of the flashing and seals shown in FIG. 24.

FIG. 27 is a side view of the flashing and seals shown in FIG. 24.

FIG. 28 is a side view of a bracket for use with the flashing and sealsshown in FIG. 24.

FIG. 28A is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the bracket.

FIG. 29 is a bottom view of the bracket shown in FIG. 28.

FIG. 29A is a bottom view of the bracket shown in FIG. 28A.

FIG. 30 is a top view of an assembly including the flashing, the seals,the bracket and two fasteners.

FIG. 31 is a perspective view of the assembly shown in FIG. 30.

FIG. 32 is a front view of the assembly shown in FIG. 30.

FIG. 33 is a side view of the assembly shown in FIG. 30.

FIG. 34 is an exploded view of the assembly shown in FIG. 30.

FIG. 35 is a top view of a third embodiment of flashing including oneaperture.

FIG. 36 is a perspective view of the flashing shown in FIG. 35.

FIG. 37 is a front view of the flashing shown in FIG. 35.

FIG. 38 is a side view of the flashing shown in FIG. 35.

FIG. 39 is a perspective view of the flashing shown in FIG. 35 includingthe seal shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 40 is a side view of a bracket for use with the flashing and sealshown in FIG. 35.

FIG. 41 is a bottom view of the bracket shown in FIG. 40.

FIG. 42 is a bottom perspective view of the bracket shown in FIG. 40.

FIG. 43 is a top view of a fourth embodiment of flashing including oneaperture.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the flashing shown in FIG. 43.

FIG. 45 is a front view of the flashing shown in FIG. 43.

FIG. 46 is a side view of the flashing shown in FIG. 43.

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of an assembly including the flashingshown in FIG. 43 and a bracket.

FIG. 48 is a top perspective view of a bracket including a membraneexploded off of the bracket for clarity.

FIG. 49 is a bottom perspective of the bracket and membrane of FIG. 48.

FIG. 50 is an exploded view of another roofing system embodiment.

FIG. 51 is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 50, taken along line 51-51 ofFIG. 50.

FIG. 52 is a partial cross-sectional view of another roofing systemembodiment.

FIG. 53 is a partial cross-sectional view of the roofing system of FIG.52 with an alternative flashing arrangement.

FIG. 54 is a top view of a flashing and seal according to someindependent embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 55 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 55-55 ofFIG. 54 and illustrating the seal.

FIG. 56 is an exploded view of the flashing and the seal of FIGS. 54 and55.

FIG. 57 is an alternate construction of the flashing shown in FIGS.54-56.

FIG. 58 is a top view of a flashing and the seal according to someindependent embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 59 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 59-59 ofFIG. 58 and illustrating the seal.

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a panel mounted to a track system formounting to a roof surface.

FIG. 61 is a close-up perspective view of FIG. 60 with the panel shownin phantom, to more clearly illustrate the connection between the paneland the track system.

FIG. 62 is a side view of the panel and snow fence of FIGS. 60 and 61.

FIG. 63 is a perspective view of a panel and a snow fence mounted to atrack system for mounting to a roof surface.

FIG. 64 is a cross-sectional view of the panel and snow fence takenalong line 64-64 of FIG. 63.

FIG. 65 is a perspective view of a structure for mounting the panel andsnow fence to the roof without the use of a track that can be utilizedwith any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

FIG. 66 is a side view of a first adjustable bracket shown in a firstposition in solid and a second position in phantom that can be utilizedwith any of the embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 67 is a perspective view of the first adjustable bracket of FIG.66.

FIGS. 68-70 are various views of a second adjustable bracket that can beutilized with any of the embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 71 is a top view of a roofing system according to some embodimentsof the present invention.

FIG. 72 is a cross-sectional view of the roofing system of FIG. 71,taken along line 72-72 of FIG. 71.

FIG. 73 is a front view of a mounting assembly from the roofing systemof FIGS. 71 and 72.

FIG. 74 is an exploded view of the mounting assembly of FIGS. 71-73.

FIG. 75 is a top view of a mounting assembly according to someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 76 is a cross-sectional view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 75,taken along line 76-76 of FIG. 75.

FIG. 77 is a front view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 75.

FIG. 78 is an exploded view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 75.

FIG. 79 is an end view of a bracket according to some embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 80 is a top view of the bracket of FIG. 79.

FIG. 81 is a side view of the bracket of FIG. 79.

FIG. 82 is a bottom view of the bracket of FIG. 79.

FIG. 83 is a perspective view of the mounting assembly according to someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 84 is a perspective view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 83 andincluding an attachment bracket.

FIG. 85 is a perspective view of the mounting assembly of FIGS. 83 and84 in an alternate orientation.

FIG. 86 is a top view of a mounting assembly according to someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 87 is a cross-sectional view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 86,taken along line 87-87 of FIG. 86.

FIG. 88 is a front view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 86.

FIG. 89 is an exploded view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 86.

FIG. 90 is a top view of a mounting assembly according to someembodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 91 is a front view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 90.

FIG. 92 is a perspective view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 90.

FIG. 93 is a side view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 90.

FIG. 94 is an exploded view of the mounting assembly of FIG. 90.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before any independent embodiments of the invention are explained indetail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in itsapplication to the details of construction and the arrangement ofcomponents set forth in the following description or illustrated in thefollowing drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and ofbeing practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is tobe understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is forthe purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. Theuse of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereofherein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalentsthereof as well as additional items.

Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “mounted,” “connected,”“supported,” and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly andencompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, andcouplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted tophysical or mechanical connections or couplings.

Also, it is to be understood that phraseology and terminology usedherein with reference to device or element orientation (such as, forexample, terms like “central,” “upper,” “lower,” “front,” “rear,” etc.)are only used to simplify description of embodiments of the presentinvention and do not alone indicate or imply that the device or elementreferred to must have a particular orientation. In addition, terms suchas “first” and “second” are used herein for purposes of description andare not intended to indicate or imply relative importance orsignificance.

FIGS. 1 and 1A illustrate a roofing system 10 including a number ofrafters or beams 12, a roof substrate 14 (e.g., tarpaper, plywood orother decking material, insulation, and the like) supported on therafters 12, flashing 16 extending across the substrate 14 (i.e., placedimmediately adjacent an upper surface of the substrate 14 or supportedon one or more intermediate layers of roofing or sealing material, whichin turn are placed on the substrate 14), a seal 18, a mounting bracket20 and at least one fastener 22 operable to connect the bracket 20 tothe roof substrate 14 and the flashing 16. In the illustratedembodiment, the roofing system 10 includes a washer 21 positionedbetween the mounting bracket 20 and the fastener 22. In someembodiments, the washer 21 can be a spring washer, a compression lockwasher, a sealing ring or the like. In some embodiments, the washer 21is omitted. The roofing system 10 is operable to support any of avariety of roof-mounted fixtures, such as, for example, snow fences,solar panels, an antenna, signs, billboards, or any of a number of otherroof-mountable assemblies. Depending on one or more of the geographiclocation, anticipated quantity and type of precipitation, andanticipated roof and wind loading, the roofing system 10 can include anyof a variety of flashing, seal and bracket arrangements, as will bediscussed below.

The bracket 20 is operable to support any of a variety of roof-mountedfixtures, such as snow guards, snow fences, solar panels, an antenna,signs, billboards, or any other assembly mountable to a roof. Someroof-mounted fixtures are described in detail in commonly-assigned U.S.Pat. No. 5,609,326, filed Jun. 16, 1995, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,526,701,filed Dec. 6, 2000, the contents of both of which are hereinincorporated by reference.

Prior to installation of the roofing system 10, apertures 24 are drilledor otherwise created in the rafters 12 and/or substrate 14. Theillustrated embodiment shows apertures 24 in the substrate 14. Theroofing system 10 inhibits leakage of fluids through the flashing 16,and, in some embodiments, may also or alternately inhibit leakage offluids beyond the flashing to portions of the substrate 14 or areasbelow the substrate 14. The roofing system 10 can be utilized on any ofa variety of roof types, such as slate roofs, membrane roofs, aluminumroofs, standing seam roofs, tile roofs, shingle roofs, and the like.

A first embodiment of flashing 16 for the roofing system 10 isillustrated in FIGS. 2-5. The flashing 16 of the embodiment of FIGS. 2-5extends substantially along a plane but includes an upwardly extendingprotrusion, such as the illustrated projection 30 that tapers upward,out of the plane. The upwardly extending projection 30 has a firstdiameter d1 in the plane, and a second diameter d2 in a second planethat is substantially parallel to but spaced from the plane. The seconddiameter d2 is less than the first diameter d1, to form a truncated coneor frustoconical shape. In other embodiments, the projections 30 canhave other shapes and configurations, corresponding to the shape of anunderside of an associated mounting bracket 20.

As best illustrated in FIG. 1A, the projection 30 defines a concaveinterior side 26, an exterior side 27 and a frustoconical end 28. Asused herein, frustoconical includes cones with rounded, flat, non-flator nearly flat upper portions and truncated cones with rounded, flat,non-flat or nearly flat upper portions. As mentioned above, theprojections 30 can have a number of different shapes and configurations.Similarly, in some embodiments, the concave interior side 26 of theprojection 30 may have a number of different shapes and configurations,including but not limited to configurations in which the arch providedby the interior side 26 does not include a uniform radius.

The concave interior side 26 and the flashing 16 define a spacetherebetween. A seal can be positioned within the space to at leastpartially fill the space to further inhibit leakage through the aperture24. The seal has been omitted from FIG. 1A for clarity, but isillustrated and described in other embodiments. Any of the seals shownor described herein can be utilized with the roofing system shown inFIGS. 1 and 1A.

With continued reference to FIGS. 2-5, the upwardly extending projection30 defines an aperture 32 positioned substantially in the second plane.The illustrated upwardly extending projection 30 and aperture 32 arecircular, but in other embodiments, can be square, D-shaped, triangular,pentagonal, hexagonal, ovular, or other regular or irregular shapes. Theillustrated aperture 32 is substantially centered on the upwardlyextending projection 30, but other, non-centered embodiments arepossible. The flashing 16 has a first side 34 and a second side 36opposite the first side 34. The first side 34 and the second side 36 aresubstantially planar, apart from the projection 30.

In some embodiments, the aperture 32 is sized to receive a seal 18therethrough. The seal 18 can extend through the flashing 16, such thatthe seal 18 engages or contacts the first side 34 of the flashing 16 andthe second side 36 of the flashing 16. The illustrated seal 18 includesa first end portion 40 that forms a substantially circular disk having aplanar end surface 41 and a second end portion 42 that forms asubstantially circular disk having a planar end surface 43 substantiallyparallel to the planar end surface 41. The illustrated seal 18 alsodefines a stem, such as the illustrated tapered central portion 44,extending between the first end portion 40 and the second end portion42. The tapered central portion 44 has a first diameter d3 adjacent theplanar end surface 41 and a second diameter d4 adjacent the planar endsurface 43. The first diameter d3 is less than the second diameter d4.The diameter of the tapered central portion 44 increases from the firstdiameter d3 to the second diameter d4 substantially linearly to form ataper along a substantially constant angle. The seal 18 has asubstantially cylindrical overall shape, with a notch 45 cut out betweenthe first end portion 40 and the second end portion 42 along the taperedcentral portion 44. The notch 45 is defined by a tapered surface 46extending between the first and second end portions 40, 42. In theillustrated embodiment, the second diameter d4 is approximately equal tothe diameter of the first end portion 40 and the diameter of the secondend portion 42.

The illustrated seal 18 defines a substantially cylindrical aperture 48that is substantially centrally located in the seal 18. The aperture 48extends normal to the outside surfaces of the first and second endportions 40, 42 and parallel to the substantially cylindrical overallshape of the seal 18, in the illustrated embodiment. The aperture 48 hasa smaller diameter than the seal first diameter d3, as shown in FIG. 7,so that the seal 18 has an adequate thickness between the first andsecond end portions 40, 42. The seal 18 can be made from any suitableresilient sealing or elastomeric material, such as polymers, rubbers,plastics, and the like.

The seal 18 is insertable into the aperture 32 to couple the seal 18 tothe flashing 16, as illustrated in FIGS. 9-12. The notch 45 is sized toreceive the flashing 16 therein. The seal 18 is operable to form acompression seal by being held against the concave interior side 26 ofthe flashing 16. The seal 18 can be factory-installed in the flashingaperture 32 or can be inserted by on-site at a customer's building. Afixture for a punch press can be sized to install the seals 18 into therespective apertures 32. In some embodiments, the punch press can beutilized to form the projection 30 and the aperture 32 in flashing 16,at the same time. In some embodiments, the punch press can form theprojection 30 and the aperture 32 in the flashing 16 and then insert theseal 18 into the aperture 32, either during the same operation or duringa separate operation.

In some embodiments, a hand tool can be utilized to insert the seal 18into the aperture 32. This tool can be operated by a single user topress or otherwise urge the first end portion 40 through the aperture32, such that the projection 30 contacts the tapered surface 46 of thetapered central portion 44. The tool can include one or more fingers toengage the seal 18 and pull or push the seal 18 through the aperture 32.The fingers can be inserted through the aperture 32 from the flashingfirst side 34 toward the flashing second side 36. The fingers can thensqueeze or pinch the first end portion 40 to temporarily reduce thediameter of the first end portion 40. In another embodiment, the fingerscan grasp a portion of the first end portion 40. The first end portion40 is then pulled through the aperture 32. The seal 18 is resilient,such that the seal 18 returns to its previous shape and size after beinginserted into the aperture 32.

An alternate seal 18A is illustrated in FIGS. 6A-8A. The seal 18A, likeseal 18 can extend through the flashing 16 such that the seal 18Aengages or contacts the first side 34 of the flashing 16 and the secondside 36 of the flashing 16. The illustrated seal 18A includes a firstend portion 40A and a second end portion 42A, spaced from the first endportion 40A. The first end portion 40A is tapered from a first diameterdA1 outward to a second diameter dA2, which is greater than the firstdiameter dA1. The first end portion 40A at the first diameter dA1 has asubstantially planar end surface 41A. The illustrated first end portion40A tapers along a constant slope, but in other embodiments, tapers ofvarying slope are possible. The second end portion 42A is tapered from athird diameter dA3 inward to a location having a diameter which is lessthan the third diameter dA3. The second end portion 42A at the thirddiameter dA3 has a substantially planar end surface 43A, which issubstantially parallel to the planar end surface 41A, as shown in FIG.6A. The illustrated second end portion 42A tapers along a constantslope, but in other embodiments, tapers of varying slope are possible.In the illustrated embodiment, the slope of the first end portion 40A issubstantially identical to the slope of the second end portion 42A. Inother embodiments, the slope of the first end portion 40A can be greateror less than the slope of the second end portion 42A.

The seal 18A includes a central portion 44A that is positioned betweenthe first end portion 40A and the second end portion 42A. The centralportion 44A is substantially disk-shaped and has a substantiallyconstant diameter. In the illustrated embodiment, the central portion44A has a diameter equal to the second diameter dA2. The central portion44A extends between the first end portion 40A and the second end portion42A and defines a notch 45A therebetween. The notch 45A permits thefirst end portion 40A to be compressed without compressing the secondend portion 42A.

Although the illustrated seal 18A does not include an aperture, the seal18A can define a substantially cylindrical aperture that issubstantially centrally located in the seal 18A, similar to the aperture48 shown in seal 18. The aperture extends normal to the planar endsurfaces of the first and second end portions 40A, 42A, in theillustrated embodiment. The aperture can have a smaller diameter thanthe seal first diameter dA1, so that the seal 18A has an adequatethickness between the first and second end portions 40A, 42A. In someembodiments, the aperture can have a diameter equal to the dA1, suchthat the first end portion 40A tapers upward toward the aperture. Insome such embodiments, the aperture can be formed only when a fasteneris inserted through the flashing 16 and the seal 18A during installationof the roofing system 10. In other embodiments, the aperture can beformed in the seal prior to assembly of the roofing system 10. The seal18A, like seal 18, can be made from any suitable resilient sealingmaterial, such as polymers, rubbers, and the like.

The seal 18A is insertable into the aperture 32 in the flashing 16 tocouple the seal 18A to the flashing 16. When installed, the first endportion 40A extends through the aperture 32, such that the flashing 16is positioned between the first end portion 40A and the second endportion 42A. The notch 45A is sized to receive the flashing 16 therein.

A bracket, such as the bracket 20 illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, can becoupled to the seal 18 and flashing 16. The illustrated bracket 20 isgenerally z-shaped and includes an elongate body portion 52 having afirst end 54 and a second end 56 spaced from the first end 54. A firstflange 58 is coupled to the first end 54 and extends substantiallyperpendicular to the elongate body portion 52 in a first direction. Asecond flange 60 is coupled to the second end 56 and extendssubstantially perpendicular to the elongate body portion 52 in a seconddirection, opposite the first direction. The first flange 58 defines anaperture 62 extending substantially parallel to the elongate bodyportion 52. The illustrated aperture 62 is substantially ovular, butother shapes, such as circular, square, rectangular, hexagonal, and thelike are possible. The aperture 62 is sized to receive a fastener,protrusion, or the like therethrough. The ovular shape of the aperture62 permits flexibility and slight relative movement between the bracket20 and the fastener, projection or the like, when installed.

The second flange 60 of the bracket 20 defines an aperture 64 thatincludes a first aperture portion 64 a and a second aperture portion 64b. The first aperture portion 64 a has a substantially cylindrical shapeand defines a first diameter d5. The second aperture portion 64 b has asubstantially cylindrical shape and defines a second diameter d6 that isless than the first diameter d5. The first aperture portion 64 a issized to receive the seal first end portion 40. The second apertureportion 64 b is sized to be smaller than the seal first end portion 40to permit pre-loading of the seal 18, to thereby seal the aperture 64with the seal 18.

An alternate embodiment of the bracket 20A is shown in FIGS. 13A and14A. The bracket 20A differs from the bracket 20 in that the secondflange 60A includes an aperture 66. The aperture 66 includes a firstaperture portion 66 a and a second aperture portion 66 b. The firstaperture portion 66 a has a substantially constant diameter da. Thesecond aperture portion 66 b has a variable, tapering diameter startingat diameter db, which is less than da and tapering inward to diameterdc. Diameter dc is less than either da or db. The second apertureportion 66 b has a substantially constant slope at which the diameterchanges between db and dc. In some embodiments, the aperture 66 istapered along the entire distance between da and dc. In otherembodiments, diameters da and db are substantially equal. In still otherembodiments, the slope of the tapered portion 66 b is greater or lessthan the illustrated slope. In yet other embodiments, the relativeheights of the first aperture portion 66 a and the second apertureportion 66 b are variable.

The projection 30 in the flashing 16 is sized to receive the second endportion 42A, as discussed above. The aperture 66 is sized to receive theseal 18A and at least partially pre-load the seal 18A to enhance theseal between the seal 18 and the bracket 20A. In some embodiments, adifferently shaped seal can be utilized. One such seal 18A isillustrated in FIGS. 6A and 7A. The seal 18A is sized to substantiallymate with the aperture 66, such that the aperture 66 can slightlypre-load the seal 18A. The first aperture portion 66 a is sized toreceive the central portion 44A, such that da is substantially equal toor slightly less than dA2. In some embodiments, the central portion 44Acan be slightly tapered to permit insertion into the first apertureportion 66 a when da is slightly less than dA2. The aperture portion 66b is sized to receive the first end portion 40A, such that dc issubstantially equal to or slightly less than dA1, and db issubstantially equal to or slightly less than dA2. In embodiments wheredc and db are slightly less than dA1 and dA2, respectfully, slightpre-loading occurs when the seal 18A is pressed into the aperture 66. Inembodiments where dc and db are substantially equal to dA1 and dA2,respectfully, the seal 18A can be preloaded by pressing the seal 18Ainto the bracket 20A by use of a fastener and the shape and size of theprojection 30 in the flashing 16.

The seals 18 and 18A can be inserted into either or both apertures 64 or66, and other configurations and arrangements of seals and apertures canbe utilized to achieve the desired seal between the flashing 16 and thebracket 20 or 20A.

One or more fasteners can be used to couple the bracket 20 to the seal18 and flashing 16 to form a roofing assembly. One such assembly 70 isillustrated in FIGS. 15-19 and includes the flashing 16, the seal 18,the bracket 20, one fastener 22, and a washer 72. The washer 72 can be apolymeric compression washer to provide a substantially water-tight sealbetween the fastener 22 and the bracket aperture 64. In someembodiments, the washer 72 can be omitted or can be replaced by ano-ring or an applied sealant, such as caulk. Alternatively or inaddition, the washer 72 can include a stiffening element, such as, forexample, a rigid backing, to provide additional support.

The assembly 70 can be installed on a roof. The fastener 22 can extendthrough the flashing 16, the seal 18, the bracket 20, into the substrate14 and the rafters 12, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 1A. The washer 72and the seal 18 work together to prevent or inhibit entry of water orother fluid into the aperture 64 or to the rafters 12 and/or substrate14. Even though the illustrated fasteners are bolts, other fasteners,such as screws, studs, nails, and other removable and non-removablefasteners, can be used.

A similar assembly can be formed with the seal 18A and the bracket 20A.This assembly can also include a fastener 22 and a washer 72, asdescribed above. The seals 18, 18A can be used interchangeably withbrackets 20, 20A, and other shapes and arrangements of seals andbrackets are possible.

FIGS. 20-34 illustrate another embodiment of a roofing system 110according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much of thesame structure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments ofthe roofing system 10 described above in connection with FIGS. 1-19.Accordingly, the following description focuses primarily upon structureand features that are different than the embodiments described above inconnection with FIGS. 1-19. Reference should be made to the descriptionabove in connection with FIGS. 1-19 for additional information regardingthe structure and features, and possible alternatives to the structureand features of the roofing system 110 illustrated in FIGS. 20-34 anddescribed below. Features and elements in the embodiment of FIGS. 20-34corresponding to features and elements in the embodiments describedabove in connection with of FIGS. 1-19 are numbered in the 100 series ofreference numbers.

The second flashing 116 is substantially in the shape of a rectangularsheet having rounded corners. The flashing 116 extends substantiallyalong a plane but includes a first upwardly extending projection 130that tapers upwardly, out of the plane. The first upwardly extendingprojection 130 has a first diameter d7 in the plane, and a seconddiameter d8 in a second plane that is substantially parallel to butspaced from the plane. The second diameter d8 is less than the firstdiameter d7, to form a truncated cone or frustoconical shape. Thediameters d7 and d8 can be the same as or different than the diametersd1 and d2 of the projection 30 described above.

The primary difference between the roofing system 110 embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 20-34 and the roofing system embodiment 10illustrated in FIGS. 1-19 is that the roofing system 110 includes asecond upwardly extending projection 131 in the flashing 116. The secondupwardly extending projection 131 has a first diameter d9 in the plane,and a second diameter d10 in a second plane that is substantiallyparallel to but spaced from the plane. The second diameter d10 is lessthan the first diameter d9, to form a truncated cone or frustoconicalshape. The diameters d9 and d10 can be the same as or different than thediameters d7 and d8 of the first projection 130 described above.

Each of the upwardly extending projections 130, 131 defines an aperture132, 133 positioned substantially in the second plane. The illustratedprojections 130, 131 are substantially the same size and shape as theprojection 30, but can have different shapes and configurations.Alternatively, each of the projections 130, 131 can have a differentshape or configuration so as to require the corresponding mountingbracket 120 to be installed in a specific desired orientation relativeto the flashing 116. The illustrated upwardly extending projections 130,131 and respective apertures 132, 133 are circular, but in otherembodiments, can be square, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, ovular,or other regular or irregular shapes. The illustrated apertures 132, 133are substantially centered on the respective upwardly extendingprojections 130, 131, but other, non-centered embodiments are possible.The second flashing 116 has a first side 134 and a second side 136opposite the first side 134. The first side 134 and the second side 136are substantially planar apart from the projections 130, 131.

First and second seals 118, 119 can be inserted into respectiveapertures 132, 133, as described above and as illustrated in FIGS.24-27. In other embodiments, a seal similar to seal 18A can be insertedinto the flashing 116. Other aperture 132, 133 and seal configurationsare possible and are considered to be within the scope of the presentinvention. The seals 118, 119 can be inserted into the respectiveapertures 132, 133 as discussed above, such as with a punch press, ahand tool, or the like.

A bracket, such as the bracket 120 illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29, canbe coupled to the seals 118, 119 and flashing 116. The illustratedbracket 120 is generally z-shaped and includes an elongate body portion152 having a first end 154 and a second end 156 spaced from the firstend 154. A first flange 158 is coupled to the first end 154 and extendssubstantially perpendicular to the elongate body portion 152 in a firstdirection. A second flange 160 is coupled to the second end 156 andextends substantially perpendicular to the elongate body portion 152 ina second direction, opposite the first direction. The first flange 158defines a pair of apertures 162, 163 extending substantially parallel tothe elongate body portion 152. The illustrated apertures 162, 163 aresubstantially ovular, but other shapes, such as circular, square,rectangular, hexagonal, and the like are possible. The apertures 162,163 are sized to receive a fastener, projection, or the liketherethrough. The ovular shape of the apertures 162, 163 permitsflexibility and slight relative movement between the bracket 120 and thefastener, projection or the like, when installed.

The second flange 160 of the bracket 120 defines a first aperture 164that includes a first aperture portion 164 a and a second apertureportion 164 b. The second flange 160 of the bracket further defines asecond aperture 165 that includes a first aperture portion 165 a and asecond aperture portion 165 b. The first aperture portions 164 a, 165 ahave a substantially cylindrical shape and define a first diameter d11.The second aperture portions 164 b, 165 b have a substantiallycylindrical shape and define a second diameter d12 that is less than thefirst diameter d11. The first aperture portions 164 a, 165 a are sizedto receive the seal 118. The second aperture portions 164 b, 165 b aresized to be smaller than the seal 118, to permit pre-loading of the seal118, to thereby seal the aperture 164 with the seal 118.

The apertures 164, 165 can have the same shape and size as aperture 64,or can be larger than or smaller than the aperture 64. First apertureportions 164 a, 165 a can have different diameters to denote properorientation of the bracket 120 on the flashing 116. Other configurationsand arrangement of brackets and apertures are possible and areconsidered to be within the scope of the present invention.

An alternate embodiment of the bracket 120A is shown in FIGS. 28A and29A. The bracket 120A is similar to the bracket 120 shown in FIGS. 28and 29, such that items include the indicator “A” to denote thesimilarity. The bracket 120A differs from the bracket 120 in that thesecond flange 160A includes apertures 166 and 167. The apertures 166,167 have a variable, tapering diameter starting at diameter dd, andtapering inward to diameter de. Diameter dc is less than da. Theapertures 166, 167 have a substantially constant slope at which thediameter changes between da and dc. In some embodiments, the apertures166, 167 are tapered along only a portion of the distance between da anddc. In still other embodiments, the slopes of the respective apertures166, 167 are greater or less than the illustrated slope. The apertures166, 167 can have the same diameters dd, de or can have differentdiameters and/or different slopes.

The apertures 166, 167 are sized to receive a seal similar to seal 18A,illustrated in FIGS. 6A-8A, and at least partially pre-loading the seal18A to enhance the seal between the seal 18 and the bracket 20A. In someembodiments, a differently shaped seal can be utilized. The seals 118,119 or other similar seals can be inserted into either apertures 164,165 or 166, 165. Other configurations and arrangements of seals andapertures can be utilized to achieve the desired seal between theflashing 116 and the bracket 120 or 120A.

One or more fasteners can be used to couple the bracket 120, 120A to theseals 118, 119 and flashing 116 to form a roofing assembly. One suchassembly 170 is illustrated in FIGS. 30-34 and includes the flashing116, the seals 118, 119, the bracket 120, two fasteners 122, 123 and twowashers 172, 173. The washers 172, 173 can be polymeric compressionwashers to provide a substantially water-tight seal between the fastener122, 123 and the bracket apertures 164, 165. In some embodiments, thewashers 172, 173 can be omitted or can be replaced by an o-ring or anapplied sealant, such as caulk.

The assembly 170 can be installed on a roof. The fasteners 122, 123 canextend through the flashing 116, the respective seals 118, 119, thebracket 120, and into rafters or substrate similar to the embodimentillustrated in FIGS. 1 and 1A. The washers 172, 173 and the seals 118,119 work together to prevent or inhibit entry of water or other fluidinto the apertures 164, 165 or the rafters 12 and/or substrate 14. Eventhough the illustrated fasteners are bolts, other fasteners, such asscrews, studs, nails, and other acceptable removable and non-removablefasteners, can be used.

The bracket 120 is operable to support any of a variety of roof-mountedfixtures, such as snow guards, snow fences, solar panels, an antenna,signs, billboards, walkways, pipe lines, mechanical units, signage,screens, cabling or any other assembly mountable to a roof. Theinclusion of two projections 130, 131 can be beneficial to inhibitrotation of a bracket 120 while mounted on a roof and/or to define aspecific orientation of a bracket 120 relative to the roof. Otherbracket configurations and arrangements are possible, and theillustrated bracket 120 is provided by way of example only. In someembodiments, bracket 20 can be coupled to only one projection 130, 131,such that the brackets 20 can have different orientations, and theunused projection can be sealed with other structure.

A similar assembly can be formed with the seal 118A, 119A and thebracket 120A. This assembly can also include a pair of fasteners 122,123 and washers 172, 173, as described above. The seals 118, 118A, 119,119A can be used interchangeably with brackets 120, 120A, and othershapes and arrangements of seals and brackets are possible.

FIGS. 35-42 illustrate another embodiment of a roofing system 210according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much of thesame structure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments ofthe roofing systems 10, 110 described above in connection with FIGS.1-34. Accordingly, the following description focuses primarily uponstructure and features that are different than the embodiments describedabove in connection with FIGS. 1-34. Reference should be made to thedescription above in connection with FIGS. 1-34 for additionalinformation regarding the structure and features, and possiblealternatives to the structure and features of the roofing system 210illustrated in FIGS. 35-42 and described below. Features and elements inthe embodiment of FIGS. 35-42 corresponding to features and elements inthe embodiments described above in connection with of FIGS. 1-34 arenumbered in the 200 series of reference numbers.

A third flashing 216 is illustrated in FIGS. 35-39. The third flashing216 is substantially in the shape of a rectangular sheet having squarecorners. The flashing 216 extends substantially along a plane butincludes a first upwardly extending projection 230 that tapers upwardly,out of the plane. The first upwardly extending projection 230 has afirst diameter d13 in the plane, and a second diameter d14 in a secondplane that is substantially parallel to but spaced from the plane. Thesecond diameter d14 is less than the first diameter d13, to form atruncated cone or frustoconical shape. The diameters d13 and d14 can bethe same as or different than the diameters d1 and d2 of the projection30 described above.

The first upwardly extending projection 230 defines an aperture 232positioned substantially in the second plane. The illustrated upwardlyextending projection 230 and aperture 232 are circular, but in otherembodiments, can be square, triangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, ovular,or other regular or irregular shapes. The illustrated aperture 232 issubstantially centered on the upwardly extending projection 230, butother, non-centered embodiments are possible. The third flashing 216 hasa first side 234 and a second side 236 opposite the first side 234. Thefirst side 234 and the second side 236 are substantially planar apartfrom the projection 230.

The third flashing 216 also includes a second upwardly extendingprojection 276 extending out of the first plane around a majority of thecircumference of the first projection 230. The second upwardly extendingprojection 276 has a substantially curved shape and forms almost acomplete ring around the first projection 230. The second projection 276forms a channel, slit or other similar narrow aperture or path, such asthe illustrated slit 278. The slit 278 can be oriented vertically belowthe upwardly extending projection 276 to provide a pathway for moistureto move away from the projection 230. Moisture can be moved or drawnaway from the aperture 232 by at least one of wicking, capillary action,surface tension, gravity, and evaporation. In some embodiments, the slit278 is positioned on a downhill side of the roof relative to theaperture 232 to utilize gravity to move fluid away from the projection230. The projection 276 can further direct fluid away from theprojection 230 to inhibit leakage of water into the aperture 232. Insome embodiments, the slit 278 includes a cutout or downwardlyprotruding extension to further move fluid away from the projection 230and aperture 232.

In other embodiments, the first and second projections 230, 276 can beformed together on a second sheet of flashing or other similar material,and the second sheet can then be secured (i.e., welded, brazed,soldered, glued or fastened in another conventional manner) to theflashing 216.

FIG. 39 illustrates a seal 218 inserted into the aperture 232, similarto the embodiments described above for seals 18 and 118. The seal 218can contact both the first side 234 and the second side 236 of theflashing 216. The seal 218 can be inserted into the apertures 232 in anyof the methods described above. The projection 230, aperture 232, andprojection 276 can be formed into the flashing 216 during the sameoperation or by the same machine as when the seal 218 is inserted intothe aperture 232. In other embodiments, the projections 230, 276 andaperture 232 can be formed into the flashing 216 prior to inserting theseal 218 into the aperture 232.

The slit 278 and projection 276 are shown in FIG. 39 more clearly, so asto illustrate the height difference between the flashing plane, theprojection 230 and the projection 276. In the instance that fluid wouldflow over the projection 276 and up the projection 230, seal 218 wouldinhibit the fluid from entering the aperture 232.

The brackets 20, 20A, 120, 120A can be utilized with the embodimentshown in FIGS. 35-42. A bracket 220, as shown in FIGS. 40-42, can bealso or alternatively be utilized with the flashing 216. The bracket 220is generally z-shaped and includes an elongate body portion 252 having afirst end 254 and a second end 256 spaced from the first end 254. Afirst flange 258 is coupled to the first end 254 and extendssubstantially perpendicular to the elongate body portion 252 in a firstdirection. A second flange 260 is coupled to the second end 256 andextends substantially perpendicular to the elongate body portion 252 ina second direction, opposite the first direction. The first flange 258defines an aperture 262 extending substantially parallel to the elongatebody portion 252. The illustrated aperture 262 is substantially ovular,but other shapes, such as circular, square, rectangular, hexagonal, andthe like are possible. The aperture 262 is sized to receive a fastener,projection, or the like therethrough. The ovular shape of the aperture262 permits flexibility and slight relative movement between the bracket220 and the fastener, projection or the like, when installed.

The second flange 260 of the bracket 220 defines an aperture 268 thatincludes a first aperture portion 268 a, a second aperture portion 268b, and a third aperture portion 268 c. The first aperture portion 268 ahas is substantially ring-shaped and defines a first diameter d15. Thesecond aperture portion 268 b has a substantially cylindrical shape anddefines a second diameter d16 that is less than the first diameter d15.The third aperture portion 286 c is substantially circular and has athird diameter d17 that is less than the first and second diameters d15and d16.

A downwardly protruding annular flange 282 extends between the firstaperture portion 268 a and the second aperture portion 268 b. The firstaperture portion 268 a is sized to receive the second projection 276.The downwardly protruding annular flange 282 is substantially planarwith a distal surface of the second flange 260 of the bracket 220. Thesecond projection 276 and the downwardly protruding annular flange 282substantially mate, such that the downwardly protruding annular flange282 contacts the flashing 216 between the first projection 230 and thesecond projection 276. The second aperture portion 268 b is sized to besmaller than the seal 218 to permit pre-loading of the seal 218, tothereby seal the aperture 268 with the seal 218. The first apertureportion 268 a, the downwardly protruding annular flange 282 and thesecond aperture portion 268 b, projection 230 and seal 218 work togetherto form a labyrinth seal to inhibit entry of fluid into the aperture232.

A notch, channel, recess, or the like, such as the illustrated notch284, can be defined in the bracket second flange 260. The notch 284 isin fluid communication with the first aperture portion 268 a. In theevent that fluid flows between the bracket 220 and the flashing 216, thefluid is permitted to flow out through the slit 278 and/or the notch284. In some embodiments, the slit 278 and notch 284 are substantiallyaligned and positioned on a downhill side of the roof relative to theprojection 230. Gravity is then used to move fluid away from theaperture 232 via the slit 278 and/or notch 284 to further inhibit entryof fluid through aperture 232. Other sizes, shapes, quantities, andconfigurations of notches can be utilized in combination with thebracket 220.

The bracket 220 can be utilized in the above described embodiments inplace of bracket 20 and 120. Alternatively, the brackets 20 and/or 120can include a notch similar to the illustrated notch 284 to provide apath for fluid to flow away from the respective apertures 32, 132, 133.The bracket 220 can further include a tapered portion, similar to thetapered portions of brackets 20A and 120A. The bracket 220 with atapered portion can be utilized in place of brackets 20A and 120A andcan be shaped to mate with seal 18A. In some embodiments, the brackets20A and/or 120A can include a notch similar to the illustrated notch 284to provide a path for fluid flow away from the respective apertures 32,132, 133.

FIGS. 43-47 illustrate another embodiment of a roofing system 310according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much of thesame structure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments ofthe roofing systems 10, 110, 210 described above in connection withFIGS. 1-42. Accordingly, the following description focuses primarilyupon structure and features that are different than the embodimentsdescribed above in connection with FIGS. 1-42. Reference should be madeto the description above in connection with FIGS. 1-42 for additionalinformation regarding the structure and features, and possiblealternatives to the structure and features of the roofing system 310illustrated in FIGS. 43-47 and described below. Features and elements inthe embodiment of FIGS. 43-47 corresponding to features and elements inthe embodiments described above in connection with of FIGS. 1-42 arenumbered in the 300 series of reference numbers.

FIGS. 43-47 illustrate a fourth flashing 316 associated with the presentinvention. The fourth flashing 316 is substantially in the shape of arectangular sheet having square corners. The flashing 316 extendssubstantially along a plane but includes an upwardly extendingprojection 330 that tapers upward, out of the plane. The upwardlyextending projection 330 has a first diameter d17 in the plane, and asecond diameter d18 in a second plane that is substantially parallel tobut spaced from the plane. The second diameter d18 is less than thefirst diameter d17, to form a truncated cone or frustoconical shape. Thediameters d17 and d18 can be the same as or different than the diametersd1 and d2 of the projection 30 described above.

The projection 330, like the projections 30, 130, and 230, can define anaperture 332 positioned substantially in the second plane. Theillustrated upwardly extending projection 330 and aperture 332 arecircular, but in other embodiments, can be square, triangular,pentagonal, hexagonal, ovular, or other regular or irregular shapes. Theillustrated aperture 332 is substantially centered on the upwardlyextending projection 330, but other, non-centered embodiments arepossible. The fourth flashing 316 has a first side 334 and a second side336 opposite the first side 334. The first side 334 and the second side336 are substantially planar apart from the projection 330.

The flashing 316 can further define other non-planar features, such as atrench 386 extending circumferentially around the projection 330 and achannel 388, extending between the trench 386 and an edge of theflashing 316. The trench 386 can provide a pathway for fluid around theprojection 330 to inhibit fluid flow up the projection 330, similar tothe function of the projection ridge 276 shown in FIGS. 35-39. Thechannel 388 can provide a pathway for fluid to move away from theprojection 330, similar to the function of the slit 278 shown in FIGS.35-39.

Moisture can be moved or drawn away from the aperture 232 by at leastone of wicking, capillary action, surface tension, gravity, andevaporation. In some embodiments, the channel 388 is positioned on adownhill side of the roof relative to the aperture 332 to utilizegravity to move fluid away from the projection 330. The trench 386 canfurther direct fluid away from the projection 330 to inhibit leakage ofwater into the aperture 232. In some embodiments, the channel 388includes a cutout, scoring or downwardly protruding extension thatextends a portion of the way to the edge of the flashing to further movefluid away from the projection 330 and aperture 332.

Although not specifically illustrated, a seal, such as seal 18, 18A, 118or 218 can be inserted into the aperture 332, similar to the embodimentsdescribed above for seals 18, 18A, 118, and 218. Reference should bemade to the descriptions of the above-described and illustrated seals18, 18A, 118, and 218 for specific details on seals that can be utilizedwith flashing 316. The seal can contact both the first side 334 and thesecond side 336 of the flashing 316. In the instance that fluid wouldflow past the trench 386 and up the projection 330, seal 318 wouldinhibit the fluid from entering the aperture 332.

The seal can be inserted into the apertures 332 using any of the methodsdescribed above. The projection 330, aperture 332, trench 386, andchannel 388 can be formed into the flashing 316 during the sameoperation or by the same machine as when the seal is inserted into theaperture 332. In other embodiments, the projection 330, trench 386,channel 388, and aperture 432 can be formed into the flashing 316 priorto inserting the seal into the aperture 332.

As shown in FIG. 47, a bracket 320 can be coupled to the flashing 316.Although a bracket similar to bracket 20 is shown, any of theabove-described brackets, such as 20, 20A, 120, 120A or 220, can beutilized with the flashing 316. The flashing 316 can define twoprojections and thereby two trenches and a channel joining the trenchesand extending to an edge of the flashing 316. In another embodiment, theflashing 316 can define two projections and two trenches, such that eachtrench joins a separate channel and each channel separately extends toan edge of the flashing 316. Other combinations and configurations ofprojections, slits, trenches and channels can be utilized within thescope of the present invention.

FIGS. 48 and 49 illustrate another embodiment of a bracket 420 accordingto the present invention. This embodiment employs much of the samestructure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments of thebrackets 20, 20A, 120, 120A, 220 or 320 described above in connectionwith FIGS. 1-47. Accordingly, the following description focusesprimarily upon structure and features that are different than theembodiments described above in connection with FIGS. 1-47. Referenceshould be made to the description above in connection with FIGS. 1-47for additional information regarding the structure and features, andpossible alternatives to the structure and features of the bracket 420illustrated in FIGS. 48 and 49 and described below. Features andelements in the embodiment of FIGS. 48 and 49 corresponding to featuresand elements in the embodiments described above in connection with ofFIGS. 1-47 are numbered in the 400 series of reference numbers.

FIGS. 48 and 49 illustrate a bracket 420 similar to the bracket 20Ashown in FIGS. 13A and 14A. The bracket 420 further includes a flexiblemembrane 490 coupled thereto adjacent aperture 466. The aperture 466 canbe sized to receive the flexible membrane 490 in a first apertureportion 466 a, that has a diameter substantially equal to a diameter ofthe flexible membrane 490. The aperture 466 can further include a secondaperture portion 466 b that is substantially tapered or frustoconicaland has first and second diameters, both of which are less than themembrane diameter.

The flexible membrane 490 can be permanently or removably coupled to thebracket 420. The flexible membrane 490 can be affixed to the bracket 420by a suitable adhesive. In some embodiments, a protective sheet or“sticker” is affixed to the flexible membrane 490 to protect themembrane 490 during manufacturing and shipping. The sticker is thenremoved from the membrane 490 prior to installation. The flexiblemembrane 490 can comprise a polymer, rubber, plastic or other suitableelastomeric material.

The bracket 420 can be coupled to any of the above-described flashing16, 116, 216 or 316 or any other suitable flashing. The aperture 466 issized to receive at least one of a projection and a seal, such as any ofthe projections and seals described herein. The flexible membrane 490can deform around a projection without rupturing or cracking. In someembodiments, the flexible membrane 490 is used in place of a sealbecause the flexible membrane 490 sufficiently seals the aperture 466. Afastener, such as any of the fasteners illustrated and described hereincan be inserted into the flexible membrane 490 to form an aperture inthe flexible membrane 490. The flexible membrane 490 is operable tosubstantially retain its shape and resist further tearing or ripping.The flexible membrane 490 can closely adhere to the fastener tosubstantially seal the aperture 466. In embodiments that utilizebrackets like 120 or 120A, a flexible membrane can be coupled to thebracket adjacent each aperture, whereas in other embodiments, a singleflexible membrane can be coupled to the bracket covering both apertures.

FIGS. 50 and 51 illustrate another embodiment of a roofing system 510according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much of thesame structure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments ofthe roofing systems described above in connection with FIGS. 1-49.Accordingly, the following description focuses primarily upon structureand features that are different than the embodiments described above inconnection with FIGS. 1-49. Reference should be made to the descriptionabove in connection with FIGS. 1-49 for additional information regardingthe structure and features, and possible alternatives to the structureand features of the roofing system 510 illustrated in FIGS. 50 and 51and described below. Features and elements in the embodiment of FIGS. 50and 51 corresponding to features and elements in the embodimentsdescribed above in connection with of FIGS. 1-49 are numbered in the 500series of reference numbers.

FIGS. 50 and 51 illustrate another roofing system 510 including flashing516, a bracket 520, a fastener 522, and a compression washer 572. Insome embodiments, such as the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 50 and 51,the flashing 516 is formed of a rigid or semi-rigid material andincludes a first projection 530 similar to the previously-describedprojections 30, 130, 230, and 330. In other embodiments, the flashing516 can be elastic or membranous, or alternatively, rigid or semi-rigidflashing can be supplemented with a flexible membrane. The flexiblemembrane can be similar to the flexible membrane 490 or can extend oversubstantially the entire surface area of the flashing 516. The flexiblemembrane can comprise a polymer, rubber, plastic or other similarmaterial.

In embodiments in which the flexible membrane replaces the flashing 516,the projections 530 and 592 need not be formed into the flexiblemembrane. Rather, the flexible membrane can stretch and conform to thebase 594 to include projections similar in shape and size to projections530 and 592.

In the illustrated embodiments of FIGS. 50 and 51, the flashing 516further includes a second projection 592 that extends in substantiallythe same direction as the first projection 530. The second projection592 can be substantially circular, as illustrated, or can be ovular,square, rectangular, triangular, or other regular or non-regular shape.The second projection 592 is sized to at least partially receive orengage a rigid base 594 between the flashing 516 and a roof substrate.In embodiments in which the flashing 516 can be elastic or membranous,the first and/or second projections 530, 592 can be formed when theflashing 516 is draped across the base 594.

The illustrated base 594 is substantially circular, but can be ovular,square, rectangular, triangular or other regular or non-regular shapes.The geometry of the base 594 can correspond with the geometry of thesecond projection 592, or as mentioned above, can cause the flashing 516to be formed around the contours of the base 594 such that the flashing516 matingly engages the base 594.

The base 594 can include at least one tooth 596 depending downwardlytherefrom. The illustrated base 594 includes three teeth 596 extendingaway from the flashing 516. The teeth 596 can bear against or grip aroof substrate to inhibit movement of the flashing 516 with respect tothe roof substrate. In some embodiments, a user can press, push or poundthe base 594 against the roof substrate, such as with a hammer. The base594 retains the flashing 516 against the roof substrate to limit oreliminate gaps created by movement of the flashing 516 relative to theroof, roof substrate, and the like. The base 594 further permits thefastener 522 to be tightened against the flashing 516 and the bracket520 without denting, deforming or damaging the flashing 516.

The illustrated base 594 further includes an aperture 598 and aprojection 500 through which the aperture 598 extends. The illustratedaperture 598 and projection 500 are substantially centered on the base594. The aperture 598 is sized to receive the fastener 522 and can bethe same size or a similar size as aperture 532. The illustratedprojection 500 extends into the space provided by the projection 530,and substantially mates with the projection 530, such that projections530 and 500 extend together. The projections 530 and 500 work togetherto inhibit relative movement of the flashing 516 with respect to theroof.

The illustrated bracket 520 is substantially L-shaped and includes anelongate body portion 552 and a first flange 558. The illustratedelongate body portion 552 includes an aperture 569 that is sized toreceive a fastener to support at least one of a snow guard, a snowfence, a solar panel, an antenna, a sign, and a billboard, or relatedcomponents. The illustrated first flange 558 includes a tapered aperture566 that is sized to at least partially receive the first projection 530and the washer projection 500. The tapered aperture 566 is also sized toreceive the fastener 522 therethrough.

In the illustrated embodiment, the compression washer 572 includes awasher and a seal, such as an o-ring. The fastener 522 has a head thatbear against the washer and the washer bears against the o-ring toprovide a resilient seal between the fastener head and the bracket 520.

The embodiments described above and illustrated in the figures arepresented by way of example only and are not intended as a limitationupon the concepts and principles of the present invention. As such, itwill be appreciated by one having ordinary skill in the art that variouschanges in the elements and their configuration and arrangement arepossible without departing from the spirit and scope of the presentinvention.

FIGS. 52 and 53 illustrate another embodiment of a roofing system 610according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much of thesame structure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments ofthe roofing systems described above in connection with FIGS. 1-51.Accordingly, the following description focuses primarily upon structureand features that are different than the embodiments described above inconnection with FIGS. 1-51. Reference should be made to the descriptionabove in connection with FIGS. 1-51 for additional information regardingthe structure and features, and possible alternatives to the structureand features of the roofing system 610 illustrated in FIGS. 52 and 53and described below. Features and elements in the embodiment of FIGS. 52and 53 corresponding to features and elements in the embodimentsdescribed above in connection with of FIGS. 1-51 are numbered in the 600series of reference numbers.

FIGS. 52 and 53 illustrate a roofing system 610 that includes a piece offlashing 616 defining an aperture 632 therethrough. The flashingaperture 632 defines a diameter d19 in FIG. 52 and diameter d20 in FIG.53. The diameter d19 of FIG. 52 is greater than the diameter d20 of FIG.53. In some embodiments, the flashing 616 can include a projectiondefining a substantially frustoconical shape, similar to the projectionsdescribed above. The roofing system 610 further includes a roof bracket620, which can include any of the previously-illustrated and describedbrackets. The illustrated bracket 620 is only partially shown, to moreclearly illustrate the details of the engagement between the bracket 620and the flashing 616. The illustrated bracket 620 includes an aperture671 extending through the bracket 620 and having a substantiallyfrustoconical shape.

The roofing system 610 also includes a seal 618 having a generallyfrustoconical shape and defining an aperture 648 extending therethrough.The seal 618 has a first narrow end 641 that defines a narrow sealdiameter d21 and a second wide end 643 that defines a wide seal diameterd22. The narrow seal diameter d21 is less than the wide seal diameterd22. The first narrow end is spaced from the roof surface and the secondwide end is proximate to or adjacent to the roof surface.

The roofing system 610 further includes at least one fastener, such asthe illustrated fastener 622. The fastener 622 can be any threaded orunthreaded fastener suitable to retain the roofing system 610 on a roof.The fastener 622 extends through the flashing aperture 632, the sealaperture 648, and the bracket aperture 671. The fastener 622 has afastener diameter d23, that is less than the flashing diameter d19 ofFIG. 52 and is less than or substantially equal to the flashing diameterd20 of FIG. 53. The diameter of the fastener 622 is less than orsubstantially equal to the narrow seal diameter d21 and is less than thewide seal diameter d22. The seal aperture 648 can be sized to receivethe fastener 622 and to optionally form a substantially water-tight sealwith the fastener 622.

The roofing system 610 can further include a washer 672, as illustratedin FIG. 53. The washer 672 can be included in the embodiment of FIG. 52,or could be omitted from the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 53. Thewasher 672 can be a polymeric compression washer to provide asubstantially water-tight seal between the fastener 622 and the bracketaperture 671. In some embodiments, the washer 672 can be omitted or canbe replaced by an o-ring or an applied sealant, such as caulk.Alternatively or in addition, the washer 672 can include a stiffeningelement, such as, for example, a rigid backing, to provide additionalsupport. The washer 672 can have an aperture that defines an diameterthat is larger than or substantially equal to the diameter of thefastener 622.

FIG. 53 illustrates possible leak points of the roofing system 610. Afirst possible leak point A is between the head of the fastener 622 andthe washer 672. A second possible leak point B is between the washer 672and the bracket 620. A third possible leak point C is between thebracket 620 and the flashing 616. The washer 672, the fastener 622, thebracket 620 and the seal 618 work together to substantially inhibit orprevent flow of fluid through first and second leak points A, B. Thebracket 620, the seal 618 and the flashing 616 work together tosubstantially inhibit or prevent flow of fluid through the third leakpoint C.

FIGS. 54-56 illustrate an alternative seal arrangement that can be usedwith any of the above-described applications. FIGS. 54-56 illustrateflashing 716 having a protrusion 730 defining an aperture 732 and a seal718 extending therethrough. The flashing 716 includes a first surface734 and a second surface 736 opposite the first surface 734. As shown inFIGS. 55-56, the seal 718 includes a first seal member 718A and a secondseal member 718B. The first seal member 718A substantially mates withthe second seal member 718B to have substantially the same shape as theseal 18 shown in FIGS. 6-7.

The illustrated first seal member 718A has a substantially T-shapedcross section and includes a first end portion 740A, a second endportion 742A and a middle portion 744A. The first seal member 718Adefines a seal aperture 748 extending therethrough between the first endportion 740A and the second end portion 742A. The first end portion 740Aof the illustrated embodiment has a first planar end surface 741 and afirst outer diameter d24. The illustrated second end portion 742Adefines an outwardly protruding flange 747A and has a second planar endsurface 743A. The illustrated outwardly protruding flange 747A defines asecond outer diameter d25 less than the first outer diameter d24.

The outwardly protruding flange 747A is deformable, such that the firstseal member 718A is insertable into the aperture 732. In the illustratedembodiment, the outwardly protruding flange 747A retains the first sealmember 718A in the aperture 732. As shown by arrow A in FIG. 56, thefirst seal member 718A is inserted into the aperture 732 from theflashing first surface 734 toward the flashing second surface 736. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the outwardly protruding flange 747A definesat least one cutout configured to decrease a force necessary to deformthe outwardly protruding flange 747A. The outwardly protruding flange747A is shown by way of example only and can take on many other sizes,shapes and configurations. In some embodiments, the outwardly protrudingflange 747A may be omitted completely.

The illustrated second seal member 718B has a substantiallyfrustoconical shape and includes a first end portion 744B and a secondend portion 742B. The first end portion 744B is in substantialengagement with the middle portion 744A of the first seal member 718A,and the second end portion 742B is in substantial engagement with thesecond end portion 742A. The first and second seal members 718A and 718Bare sized and shaped to form a water-tight seal therebetween. The secondend portion 742B of the second seal member 718B defines a cutout 747Bshaped to receive the outwardly protruding flange 747A. The illustratedflange 747A and cutout 747B are provided by way of example only, andother mating, inter-engaging configurations and arrangements of partscan be used in place of the illustrated flange 747A and cutout 747B. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the surface 743A is substantially co-planarwith a second planar end surface 743B of the second end portion 742B. Inother embodiments, the surface 743A is not co-planar with the secondplanar end surface 743B.

The second seal member 718B includes an inner surface 749 and an outersurface 751. The inner surface 749 includes the cutout 747B andsubstantially abuts against the middle portion 744A and the second endportion 742A of the first seal member 718A. The outer surface 751 has asubstantially frustoconical shape and substantially abuts against thesecond surface 736 of the flashing 716. As shown by arrow B, the secondseal member 718B is inserted into the protrusion 730 from the flashingsecond surface 736 into abutting engagement with the flashing secondsurface 736. The first and second seal members 718A and 718B can bepressed into mating engagement and retained on the flashing 716 by theinter-engagement of the outwardly protruding flange 747A and the cutout747B.

A user can install the seal 718 on the flashing 716 on site by hand,without the use of special tools or equipment. The assembled flashing716 and seal 718 may be positioned on the roof. A bracket may then bepositioned on the seal 718 and the flashing 716, and a fastener may beinstalled to fix the assembly to the roof. The portion 740 of the seal718 is between the flashing 716 and the bracket, and the portion 744A ofthe seal 718 is between the flashing 716 and the fastener, thus forminga water-tight seal to inhibit flow of fluid through the aperture 732.

FIG. 57 illustrates an alternative arrangement to provide a seal in theprotrusion 730 with only the first seal member 718A. The illustratedfirst seal member 718A is the same as the first seal member 718A ofFIGS. 54-56 but can have a different shape or configuration. A void 753is defined between the middle portion 744A, the second end portion 742Aand the protrusion 730. The void 753 is substantially the same size andshape of the second seal member 718B shown in FIGS. 54-56. The void 753is substantially sealed from the outside environment by the first sealmember 718A.

FIGS. 58-59 illustrate an alternate seal arrangement that can be usedwith any of the above-described applications. FIGS. 58-59 illustrateflashing 816 having a protrusion 830 defining an aperture 832 and a seal818 extending therethrough. The flashing 816 includes a first surface834 and a second surface 836 opposite the first surface 834. As shown inFIG. 59, the seal 818 includes a first seal member 818A and a secondseal member 818B. The first seal member 818A substantially mates withthe second seal member 818B to have shape similar to the seal 18 shownin FIGS. 6-7.

The first seal member 818A includes a ring 840 having a first surface841A. The second seal member 818B includes a first end portion 840B, asecond end portion 842 and a middle portion 844. The second seal member818B has a first surface 841B and a second surface 843. The second sealmember 818B defines an aperture 848 extending therethrough. The firstsurface 841A of the first seal member 818A and the first surface 841B ofthe second seal member 818B are not illustrated as co-planar but can besubstantially co-planar in other embodiments (not shown).

The first end portion 840B includes an outwardly protruding flange 847sized and shaped to retain the first seal member 818A in engagement withthe second seal member 818B. The outwardly protruding flange 847 isflexible and deformable, thereby permitting the first seal member 818Ato be pressed onto the second seal member 818B over the outwardlyprotruding flange 847. The flange 847 deforms and subsequently, returnsto the original shape and thereby retains the first seal member 818A inengagement with the second seal member 818B. The first and second sealmembers 818A and 818B cooperate to form a substantially water-tight sealin the aperture 832. Like the seal arrangements illustrated in FIGS.56-59, the seal 818 can be installed on the flashing 816 by hand onsite, without the use of special tools or equipment.

Any of the illustrated seal embodiments can include a single monolithicpiece or two or more pieces that combine to form the illustrated sealshapes and configurations.

FIGS. 60-62 illustrate another embodiment of a roofing system 1110according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much of thesame structure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments ofthe roofing system described above in connection with FIGS. 1-59.Accordingly, the following description focuses primarily upon structureand features that are different than the embodiments described above inconnection with FIGS. 1-59. Reference should be made to the descriptionabove in connection with FIGS. 1-59 for additional information regardingthe structure and features, and possible alternatives to the structureand features of the roofing system 1110 illustrated in FIGS. 60-62 anddescribed below. Features and elements in the embodiment of FIGS. 60-62corresponding to features and elements in the embodiments describedabove in connection with of FIGS. 1-59 are numbered in the 1100 seriesof reference numbers.

FIGS. 60-62 disclose a roofing system 1110 including a solar panel 1112mounted to a track 1114 that is mountable to a roof in a substantiallyvertical orientation (i.e. extending substantially normal to a roofapex). A plurality of sections of flashing 1116 are provided where thesolar panel 1112 and/or track 1114 are coupled to the roof. A pluralityof brackets 1118 are positioned between the respective sections offlashing 1116 and the solar panel 1112. A plurality of fasteners 1120extend through the respective bracket 1118, flashing 1116 and into theroof. Further fasteners 1122 couple the respective bracket 1118 to thetrack 1114. A second plurality of brackets 1126 are coupled to the solarpanel 1112 and engage the roof in some embodiments, and are spaced abovethe roof in other embodiments. The second plurality of brackets 1126 arecoupled to the solar panel 1112 with a plurality of fasteners 1128. Theillustrated brackets 1118, 1126 are shown by way of example only. Anysuitable brackets can be utilized, such as any of the brackets shown anddescribed herein.

FIGS. 63 and 64 disclose a roof system 1210 including a solar panel 1212mounted to a track 1214 that is mountable to a roof in a substantiallyhorizontal orientation (i.e. extending substantially parallel to a roofapex). The roof system 1210 also includes a snow fence 1230 including asnow guard 1232 extending substantially perpendicular to a roof surfaceand a plurality of extensions 1234 a, 1234 b, etc. extendingsubstantially parallel to the roof surface.

The illustrated snow fence 1230 is modular, such that any suitablenumber of extensions 1234 a, 1234 b, etc. can be utilized to achieve adesired length L of the snow fence 1230. The extensions 1234 a, 1234 b,etc. include a locking structure 1240 to releasably couple theextensions 1234 a, 1234 b, etc. to an adjacent extension.

The snow guard 1232 extends away from the extension 1234 a along aheight of H. The snow guard 1232 is positioned a distance D away fromthe nearest edge of the solar panel 1212. In some embodiments H is lessthan or equal to two times D (H<2*D or H=2*D). The height H and distanceD can vary for different angles of roofs and global locations.Preferably the height H and distance D are selected to limit or avoidshadows from the snow guard 1232 to partially or substantially cover thesolar panel 1212.

The solar panel 1212 is spaced from the snow fence 1230 a desireddistance d, in which d=D−L, to permit rain, snow or other precipitationfrom the solar panel 1212 to flow under the snow fence 1230. Theprecipitation can flow between the tracks 1214, optionally into agutter, and off the roof. The snow guard 1232 can be positioned an anglethat is non parallel to the roof apex to permit precipitation to flowoff of one side of the snow guard 1232. The snow fence can be orientatedat a non-parallel angle with respect to the roof to permit precipitationto flow off of one side of the snow fence 1230.

In some embodiments, a top surface of the extensions 1234 a, 1234 b,etc. can have a greater coefficient of friction than a top surface ofthe solar panel 1212. As precipitation slides along the solar panel 1212the precipitation can gain speed and “fly” off the roof if not slowed orstopped. In some climates, this scenario can pose problems, dependingupon the quantity and type(s) of precipitation experienced. The snowfence 1230 can slow or stop snow and ice from flying off the roof, butcan permit rain to fall off of the roof. As the snow and/or ice melt,the water can run off of the extensions 1234 a, 1234 b by changing theangle of the snow guard 1232 and the extensions 1234 a, 1234 b, etc.with respect to the roof.

In some embodiments, one or more portions of the snow fence 1230 andtrack 1214 can function as a rain diverter by directing rain or snowmelt away from doorways or walkways.

FIG. 65 illustrates a bracket and fastener arrangement 1300 that can beutilized with any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

FIGS. 66 and 67 illustrate an adjustable height bracket 1400 that can beutilized with any of the embodiments disclosed herein. The illustratedbracket 1400 permits an end user to select the distance between the roofand the solar panel and/or the distance between the roof and snow fence.FIGS. 66 and 67 illustrate the bracket 1400 in a first position thatextends the height of the bracket to H1 (shown in phantom in FIG. 66).FIGS. 66 and 67 illustrates the bracket 1400 in a second position thatretracts the height of the bracket to H2 (shown in solid in FIGS. 66 and67). FIG. 66 illustrates the bracket in the second position in solid andin the first position in phantom. The illustrated bracket 1400 includesfour possible heights, but brackets with other quantities and ranges ofheights can be utilized.

FIGS. 68-70 illustrate an adjustable height bracket 1500 that can beutilized with any of the embodiments disclosed herein. The illustratedbracket 1500 permits an end user to select the distance between the roofand the solar panel and/or the distance between the roof and snow fence.The illustrated bracket 1500 is coupled to the snow fence 1230 and aportion of flashing. The illustrated bracket 1500 can be adjusted to anyof a number of positions within a range. The illustrated bracket 1500includes a first, generally L-shaped portion 1502 and a second,generally L-shaped portion 1504. The first, generally L-shaped portion1502 includes a first pair of slots 1506, 1508 and the second, generallyL-shaped portion includes a second pair of slots 1510, 1512. The firstpair of slots 1506, 1508 are substantially aligned with the second pairof slots 1510, 1512 and a pair of fasteners 1514, 1516 are inserted intothe respective slots 1506 and 1510, 1508 and 1512.

The first and second portions 1502, 1504 each include at least one roughsurface that is formed, machined, molded, sanded or otherwisemanufactured to have a high coefficient of friction. Two rough surfacesare illustrated, however, both a front and a back of the L-shapedportions 1502, 1504 can form rough surfaces. In such an embodiment, therough surfaces face one another to engage and substantially “lock”together when the fasteners 1514 and 1516 are tightened. The height ofthe adjustable height bracket 1500 can be adjusted to any height in arange of heights. The range is at least partially dependent upon thelength and location of the slots 1506, 1508, 1510, 1512. Otherquantities, locations and orientations of slots and brackets can beutilized in combination with the present invention.

FIGS. 71-74 illustrate another embodiment of roofing assemblies 2026,2046 according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much ofthe same structure and has many of the same properties as theembodiments of the roofing assemblies described above in connection withthe embodiments of FIGS. 1-70. Accordingly, the following descriptionfocuses primarily upon structure and features that are different thanthe embodiments described above in connection with FIGS. 1-70. Referenceshould be made to the description above in connection with FIGS. 1-70for additional information regarding the structure and features, andpossible alternatives to the structure and features of the roofingassemblies 2026, 2046 illustrated in FIGS. 71-74 and described below.Features and elements in the embodiment of FIGS. 71-74 corresponding tofeatures and elements in the embodiments described above in connectionwith of FIGS. 1-70 are numbered in the 2000 series of reference numbers.

FIGS. 71 and 72 show a roofing system 2010 including a number of raftersor beams 2012 (one such rafter 2012 is illustrated), a roof substrate2014 (e.g., tarpaper, plywood or other decking material, insulation, andthe like) supported on the rafters 2012, flashing 2016 extending acrossthe substrate 2014 (i.e., placed immediately adjacent an upper surfaceof the substrate 2014 or supported on one or more intermediate layers ofroofing or sealing material, which in turn are placed on the substrate2014), a seal 2018, a first mounting bracket 2020 and at least onefastener 2022 operable to connect the first bracket 2020 to the roofsubstrate 2014 and the flashing 2016. In the illustrated embodiment, theroofing system 2010 includes a washer 2021 positioned between the firstmounting bracket 2020 and the fastener 2022. In some embodiments, thewasher 2021 can be a spring washer, a compression lock washer, a sealingring or the like. In some embodiments, the washer 2021 is omitted. Theroofing system 2010 is operable to support any of a variety ofroof-mounted fixtures, such as, for example, snow fences, solar panels,an antenna, signs, billboards, or any of a number of otherroof-mountable assemblies. Depending on one or more of the geographiclocation, anticipated quantity and type of precipitation, andanticipated roof and wind loading, the roofing system 10 can include anyof a variety of flashing, seal and bracket arrangements, as will bediscussed below.

The first bracket 2020 is operable to support any of a variety ofroof-mounted fixtures, such as snow guards, snow fences, solar panels,an antenna, signs, billboards, or any other assembly mountable to aroof. Some roof-mounted fixtures are described in detail incommonly-assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,609,326, filed Jun. 16, 1995, and U.S.Pat. No. 6,526,701, filed Dec. 6, 2000.

Prior to installation of the roofing system 2010, apertures 2024 aredrilled or otherwise created in the rafters 2012 and/or substrate 2014.The illustrated embodiment shows an aperture 2024 in the rafter 2012 andthe substrate 2014. The roofing system 2010 inhibits leakage of fluidsthrough the flashing 2016, and, in some embodiments, may also oralternately inhibit leakage of fluids beyond the flashing to portions ofthe substrate 2014 or areas below the substrate 2014. The roofing system2010 can be utilized on any of a variety of roof types, such as slateroofs, membrane roofs, aluminum roofs, standing seam roofs, tile roofs,shingle roofs, and the like.

One or more fasteners can be used to couple the first bracket 2020 tothe seal 2018 and flashing 2016 to form a mounting assembly. One suchassembly 2026 is illustrated in FIGS. 71-74 and includes the flashing2016, the seal 2018, the first bracket 2020, one fastener 2022, and awasher 2028. The washer 2028 can be a spring washer, a sealing ring, acompression washer, or the like, to provide a substantially water-tightseal between the fastener 2022 and the first bracket 2020. In someembodiments, the washer 2028 can be omitted or can be supplemented by ano-ring or an applied sealant, such as caulk. Alternatively or inaddition, the washer 2021 can include a stiffening element, such as, forexample, a rigid backing, to provide additional support.

The assembly 2026 can be installed on a roof. The fastener 2022 canextend through the flashing 2016, the seal 2018, the first bracket 2020,into the substrate 2014 and the rafters 2012, as illustrated in FIGS. 71and 72. The washer 2028 and the seal 2018 work together to prevent orinhibit entry of water or other fluid between the flashing 2016 and thefirst bracket 2020 or under the flashing 2016 to the rafters 2012 and/orsubstrate 2014. Even though the illustrated fasteners are bolts, otherfasteners, such as screws, studs, nails, and other removable andnon-removable fasteners, can be used.

The illustrated first bracket 2020 includes a substantially planar firstend 2030, first and second arms 2032, 2034 and a substantially planarsecond end 2036. The first end 2030 defines an aperture 2038 extendingtherethrough, through which the seal 2018 and fastener 2022 extend. Theseal 2018 illustrated in FIG. 72 is substantially frustoconical inshape, but other shapes, configurations and arrangements can be utilizedto provide a seal between the flashing 2016 and the first bracket 2020.The first bracket 2020 can have a suitably sized and shaped aperture toreceive the seal 2018. The illustrated aperture 2038 includes a verticalportion and a tapered portion. The vertical portion is positioned nearthe washer 2028 and the tapered portion is positioned near the seal2018. The tapered portion substantially mates with the seal 2018 tosubstantially inhibit flow of fluid through the aperture 2038. Theflashing 2016 can also include a substantially frustoconical projectionextending at least partially into the bracket aperture. Multiplesuitable seals and receiving apertures are illustrated and describedherein.

The illustrated first bracket 2020 defines an aperture 2040 bound by thefirst end 2030, the first and second arms 2032, 2034 and the second end2036. The illustrated aperture 2040 is substantially rectangular incross-section. Other aperture shapes, sizes and locations can be formedby the first bracket 2020. The first bracket 2020 can be cast, extruded,molded, or otherwise formed. In some embodiments, the first bracket 2020is formed from steel, but in other embodiments, other metals ornon-metallic materials can be utilized to form the first bracket 2020.

The illustrated second end 2036 defines an aperture 2042 sized toreceive a second fastener 2044 therethrough. The second fastener 2044 ispart of a second roofing assembly 2046 that further includes a plate2048, a first nut 2050, a second nut 2052 and a second bracket 2054. Thesecond roofing assembly 2046 is coupled to the assembly 2026 by theengagement of the fastener 2044 in the aperture 2042 in the second end2036 of the first bracket 2020. The first nut 2050 can be positionedalong the second fastener 2044 to adjust the relative length of thesecond fastener 2044 extending above the aperture 2042.

The illustrated second bracket 2054 is substantially U-shaped andincludes a first flange 2056 and a second flange 2058. Other sizes,shapes and configurations can be utilized in place of the illustratedsecond bracket 2054. The first and second nuts 2050, 2052 permitadjustment of the length of the second fastener 2044 above the firstbracket 2020. Specifically, a length L between the plate 2048 and thefirst and second flanges 2056, 2058 is variable due to the engagement ofthe first and second nuts 2050, 2052 and the second fastener 2044. Thelength L is adjustable to retain any of a variety of roof-mountedstructures between the plate 2048 and the flanges 2056, 2058.

The first fastener 2022 defines a first axis A1 and the second fastener2044 defines a second axis A2. A distance d between the first axis A1and the second axis A2 is shown in FIG. 72. The second fastener 2044 isoffset from the first fastener 2022 by the distance d. The firstfastener 2022 extends into one of the beams 2012 and supports the secondroofing assembly 2046 spaced from the beam 2012. This provides muchgreater flexibility for installation of the roofing system 2010, suchthat the second roofing assembly 2046 can be offset from the beams 2012and still be supported by the beams 2012.

FIGS. 75-78 illustrate another embodiment of roofing assemblies 2126,2146 according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much ofthe same structure and has many of the same properties as theembodiments of the roofing assemblies described above in connection withthe embodiments of FIGS. 1-74. Accordingly, the following descriptionfocuses primarily upon structure and features that are different thanthe embodiments described above in connection with FIGS. 1-74. Referenceshould be made to the description above in connection with FIGS. 1-74for additional information regarding the structure and features, andpossible alternatives to the structure and features of the roofingassemblies 2126, 2146 illustrated in FIGS. 75-78 and described below.Features and elements in the embodiment of FIGS. 75-78 corresponding tofeatures and elements in the embodiments described above in connectionwith of FIGS. 1-74 are numbered in the 2100 series of reference numbers.

The roofing assembly 2126 includes flashing 2116, a seal 2118, a firstbracket 2120, a first fastener 2122 and a washer 2128. The flashing2116, seal 2118, fastener 2122 and washer 2128 are similar to theflashing, seal, fastener and washer of previously-described embodiments.Reference should be made to the description of FIGS. 1-70 for theflashing 2116, seal 2118, fastener 2122 and washer 2128.

The illustrated first bracket 2120 includes a substantially planar firstend 2130, a first side arm 2132, a middle arm 2133, a second side arm2134, and a substantially planar second end 2136. The first end 2130defines an aperture 2138 extending therethrough, through which the seal2118 and fastener 2122 extend. The first bracket 2120 has generally thesame overall shape as the first bracket 2020, but has a generallyZ-shaped cross section. The middle arm 2133 includes an aperture 2138extending therethrough proximate a head of the first fastener 2122. Theaperture 2138 can permit fluid to drain away from the seal 2118, thefirst fastener 2122, and the washer 2128.

The illustrated second end 2136 defines an aperture 2142 sized toreceive a second fastener 2144 therethrough. The second fastener 2144 ispart of the second roofing assembly 2146 that further includes a plate2148, a first nut 2150, a second nut 2152 and a second bracket 2154. Thesecond roofing assembly 2146 is coupled to the roofing assembly 2126 bythe engagement of the fastener 2144 in the aperture 2142 in the secondend 2136 of the first bracket 2120. The first nut 2150 can be positionedalong the second fastener 2144 to adjust the length of the secondfastener 2144 extending above the aperture 2142 in the second end 2136.The second roofing assembly 2146 is similar to the second roofingassembly 2046 in the previous embodiment.

The illustrated second bracket 2154 is substantially U-shaped andincludes a first flange 2156 and a second flange 2158. Other sizes,shapes and configurations can be utilized in place of the illustratedsecond bracket 2154. The first and second nuts 2150, 2152 permitadjustment of the relative length of the second fastener 2144 above thefirst bracket 2120. Specifically, a length L1 between the plate 2148 andthe first and second flanges 2156, 2158 is variable due to theengagement of the first and second nuts 2150, 2152 and the secondfastener 2144. The length L1 is adjustable to retain any of a variety ofroof-mounted structures between the plate 2148 and the flanges 2156,2158.

The first fastener 2122 defines a first axis A1 and the second fastener2144 defines a second axis A12. A distance d1 between the first axis A11and the second axis A12 is shown in FIG. 76. The second fastener 2144 isoffset from the first fastener 2122 by the distance d1. The firstfastener 2122 extends into one of the beams 2012 (illustrated in FIGS.71 and 72) and supports the second roofing assembly 2146 spaced from thebeam 2012. This provides much greater flexibility for installation ofthe roofing system 2010 (illustrated in FIGS. 71 and 72), such that thesecond roofing assembly 2146 can be offset from the beams 2012 and stillbe supported by the beams 2012.

FIGS. 79-82 illustrate another embodiment of a first bracket 2220according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much of thesame structure and has many of the same properties as the embodiments ofthe brackets described above in connection with FIGS. 1-78. Accordingly,the following description focuses primarily upon structure and featuresthat are different than the embodiments described above in connectionwith FIGS. 1-78. Reference should be made to the description above inconnection with FIGS. 1-78 for additional information regarding thestructure and features, and possible alternatives to the structure andfeatures of the first bracket 2220 illustrated in FIGS. 79-82 anddescribed below. Features and elements in the embodiment of FIGS. 79-82corresponding to features and elements in the embodiments describedabove in connection with of FIGS. 1-78 are numbered in the 2200 seriesof reference numbers.

The illustrated first bracket 2220 includes a substantially planar firstend 2230, first and second arms 2232, 2234 and a substantially planarsecond end 2236. The first end 2230 defines an aperture 2238 extendingtherethrough, through which a seal and fastener can extend. Theillustrated aperture 2238 includes a vertical portion 2238 a and atapered portion 2238 b.

The illustrated first bracket 2220 defines an aperture 2240 bound by thefirst end 2230, the first and second arms 2232, 2234 and the second end2236. The illustrated aperture 2240 is substantially rectangular incross-section. Other aperture shapes, sizes and locations can be formedby the first bracket 2220. The first bracket 2220 can be cast, extruded,molded, or otherwise formed. In some embodiments, the first bracket 2220is formed from steel, but in other embodiments, other metals ornon-metallic materials can be utilized to form the first bracket 2220.

The illustrated second end 2236 defines an aperture 2242 sized toreceive a fastener, such as the second fastener 2244 therethrough. Theaperture 2238 is spaced from the aperture 2242 by a distance d2. Asdescribed in greater detail above, this provides much greaterflexibility for installation of the bracket 2220 on a roof, such that asecond assembly (such as 2046, 2146) can be offset from the beams 2012and still be supported by the beams 2012.

FIGS. 83-85 illustrate another embodiment of roofing assemblies 2326,2346 according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much ofthe same structure and has many of the same properties as theembodiments of the roofing assemblies described above in connection withFIGS. 1-82. Accordingly, the following description focuses primarilyupon structure and features that are different than the embodimentsdescribed above in connection with FIGS. 1-82. Reference should be madeto the description above in connection with FIGS. 1-82 for additionalinformation regarding the structure and features, and possiblealternatives to the structure and features of the roofing assemblies2326, 2346 illustrated in FIGS. 83-85 and described below. Features andelements in the embodiment of FIGS. 83-85 corresponding to features andelements in the embodiments described above in connection with of FIGS.1-82 are numbered in the 2300 series of reference numbers.

The roof mounting assembly 2326 includes flashing 2316, a seal (notshown), a first bracket 2320, a first fastener 2322 and a washer 2328.The flashing 2316, seal, fastener 2322 and washer 2328 are similar tothe flashing, seal, fastener and washer of previously-describedembodiments. Reference should be made to the description of FIGS. 1-82for the flashing 2316, seal, fastener 2322 and washer 2328.

The illustrated first bracket 2320 includes a substantially planar firstend 2330, a first side arm 2332, a middle arm 2333, a second side arm2334 and a substantially planar second end 2336. The first end 2330defines an aperture through which the fastener 2322 extends. The firstbracket 2320 has the same general overall shape as the bracket 2120. Themiddle arm 2333 can include an aperture extending therethrough to permitfluid to drain away from the first fastener 2322 and the washer 2328.

The illustrated second end 2336 defines an aperture 2342 sized toreceive a second fastener 2344 therethrough. The second fastener 2344 ispart of a second roof mounting assembly 2346 that further includes aplate 2348, a first nut 2350, a second nut 2352 and a second bracket2354. The second roof mounting assembly 2346 is coupled to the roofmounting assembly 2326 by the engagement of the second fastener 2344 inthe aperture 2342 in the second end 2336 of the first bracket 2320. Thefirst nut 2350 can be positioned along the second fastener 2344 toadjust the length of the second fastener 2344 extending above the secondaperture 2342. The second roof mounting assembly 2346 is similar to thesecond roofing assembly 2046 in the previously-described embodiment.Reference should be made to the description of FIGS. 1-82 for details ofthe second roof mounting assembly 2346.

The illustrated second bracket 2354 is substantially U-shaped andincludes a first flange 2356 and a second flange 2358. Other sizes,shapes and configurations can be utilized in place of the illustratedsecond bracket 2354. The first and second nuts 2350, 2352 permitadjustment of the relative length of the second fastener 2344 above thefirst bracket 2320. Specifically, a length between the plate 2348 andthe first and second flanges 2356, 2358 is variable due to theengagement of the first and second nuts 2350, 2352 and the secondfastener 2344, to retain any of a variety of roof-mounted structuresbetween the plate 2348 and the flanges 2356, 2358.

As in the above-described embodiments, the first fastener 2322 is spacedfrom the second fastener 2344. The first fastener 2322 can extend intoone of the beams 2012 (illustrated in FIGS. 71 and 72) and support thesecond roof mounting assembly 2346 spaced from the beam 2012. Thisprovides much greater flexibility for installation of the roofing system2010 (illustrated in FIGS. 71 and 72), such that the second roofmounting assembly 2346 can be offset from the beams 2012 and still besupported by the beams 2012.

Additionally, FIGS. 83 and 84 illustrate the first roof mountingassembly 2326 in a first orientation and FIG. 85 illustrates the firstroof mounting assembly 2326 in a second orientation, rotated about thefirst fastener 2322 from the first orientation. In some embodiments, thefirst roof mounting assembly 2326 can rotate about 360 degrees to permitinfinite adjustment of spacing between the first and second fasteners2322, 2344 along an axis, within a range of distances. Such adjustmentpermits the second roof mounting assembly 2346 to be offset from thebeam 2012 by varying distances without sacrificing structural integrityof the roof mounting structure.

FIGS. 86-88 illustrate another embodiment of roofing assemblies 2426,2446 according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much ofthe same structure and has many of the same properties as theembodiments of the roofing assemblies described above in connection withFIGS. 1-85. Accordingly, the following description focuses primarilyupon structure and features that are different than the embodimentsdescribed above in connection with FIGS. 1-85. Reference should be madeto the description above in connection with FIGS. 1-85 for additionalinformation regarding the structure and features, and possiblealternatives to the structure and features of the roofing assemblies2426, 2446 illustrated in FIGS. 86-88 and described below. Features andelements in the embodiment of FIGS. 86-88 corresponding to features andelements in the embodiments described above in connection with of FIGS.1-85 are numbered in the 2400 series of reference numbers.

The roof mounting assembly 2426 includes flashing 2416 a seal 2418, afirst bracket 2420, a first fastener 2422 and a washer 2428. Theflashing 2416, seal 2418, fastener 2422 and washer 2428 are similar tothe flashing, seal, fastener and washer of the previously-describedembodiments. Reference should be made to the description of FIGS. 1-85for the flashing 2416, seal 2418, fastener 2422 and washer 2428.

The illustrated first bracket 2420 includes a substantially planar firstend 2430, a first side arm 2432, a second side arm 2434, and asubstantially planar second end 2436. The first end 2430 defines anaperture 2438 extending therethrough, through which the seal 2418 andfastener 2422 extend. The first bracket 2420 has the same generaloverall shape as the first bracket 2020.

The illustrated first bracket 2420 defines an aperture 2440 bound by thefirst end 2430, the first and second arms 2432, 2434 and the second end2436. The illustrated aperture 2440 is substantially rectangular incross-section. Other aperture shapes, sizes and locations can be formedby the first bracket 2420. The first bracket 2420 can be cast, extruded,molded, or otherwise formed. In some embodiments, the first bracket 2420is formed steel, but in other embodiments, other metals or non-metallicmaterials can be utilized to form the first bracket 2420.

The illustrated second end 2436 defines an aperture 2442 sized toreceive a second fastener 2444 therethrough. The second fastener 2444 ispart of the second roof mounting assembly 2446 that further includes anut 2452, a second bracket 2454 and a third bracket 2445. The second andthird brackets 2454, 2456 each include a respective slot 2457, 2459through which the second fastener 2444 extends. The nut 2452 retains thesecond and third bracket 2454, 2456 on the first bracket 2420. Theillustrated embodiment includes a washer 2460 positioned between the nut2452 and the third bracket 2456. The illustrated second and thirdbrackets 2454, 2456 are substantially J-shaped. Other sizes, shapes andconfigurations can be utilized in place of the illustrated second andthird brackets 2454, 2456.

The illustrated second roof mounting assembly 2446 further includes athird fastener 2462 coupled to the second bracket 2454 and a fourthfastener 2464 coupled to the third bracket 2456. The third and fourthfasteners 2462, 2464 are positioned to selectively releasably retain oneor more roof mounted structures on the second and third bracket 2454,2456.

The slots 2457, 2459 permit movement of the second and third brackets2454, 2456 toward and away from the first fastener 2422 to providegreater flexibility for installation. Specifically, the fastener 2422extends into one of the beams 2012 (illustrated in FIGS. 71 and 72) andsupports the second roof mounting assembly 2446 spaced from the beam2012. This provides much greater flexibility for installation of theroofing system 2010 (illustrated in FIGS. 71 and 72), such that thesecond roof mounting assembly 2446 can be offset from the beams 2012 andstill be supported by the beams 2012. Further, the distance between thethird and fourth fasteners 2462, 2464 is variable within a range, topermit the second roof mounting assembly 2446 to be coupled to any of avariety of roof mountable structures.

FIGS. 90-94 illustrate another embodiment of roofing assemblies 2526,2546 according to the present invention. This embodiment employs much ofthe same structure and has many of the same properties as theembodiments of the roofing assemblies described above in connection withFIGS. 1-89. Accordingly, the following description focuses primarilyupon structure and features that are different than the embodimentsdescribed above in connection with FIGS. 1-89. Reference should be madeto the description above in connection with FIGS. 1-89 for additionalinformation regarding the structure and features, and possiblealternatives to the structure and features of the roofing assemblies2526, 2546 illustrated in FIGS. 90-94 and described below. Features andelements in the embodiment of FIGS. 90-94 corresponding to features andelements in the embodiments described above in connection with of FIGS.1-89 are numbered in the 2500 series of reference numbers.

The roof mounting assembly 2526 includes flashing 2516 a pair of seals2518, a first bracket 2520, a first pair of fasteners 2522 and a pair ofwashers 2528. In some embodiments, the pair of washers 2528 includeNeoprene bonded washers. The flashing 2516, seals 2518, fasteners 2522and washers 2528 are similar to the flashing, seal, fastener and washerof the previously-described embodiments. Reference should be made to thedescription of FIGS. 1-89 for the flashing 2516, seals 2518, fasteners2522 and washers 2528.

The illustrated first bracket 2520 includes a first substantially planarportion 2568 and a second substantially planar portion 2570. The firstportion 2568 extends substantially perpendicular to the second portion2570. The illustrated first bracket 2520 is substantially L-shaped. Thefirst portion 2568 defines a pair of apertures (not shown) extendingtherethrough, through which the seals 2518 and fasteners 2522 extend.The first bracket 2520 can be cast, extruded, molded, or otherwiseformed. In some embodiments, the first bracket 2520 is formed fromsteel, but in other embodiments, other metals or non-metallic materialscan be utilized to form the first bracket 2520.

The second portion 2570 defines a pair of slots 2572 extendingtherethrough. The illustrated slots 2572 extend in a substantiallyvertical direction, but other shapes, sizes and orientations of slotscan be formed in the first bracket 2520. The slots 2572 are sized toreceive a respective one of a pair of second fastener 2544 therethrough.The pair of second fasteners 2544 is part of the second roof mountingassembly 2546 that further includes a first plate 2574, a second plate2576 a pair of nuts 2578 and optionally, a plurality of washers 2580.The first plate 2574 includes a pair of apertures 2582 and the secondplate 2576 includes a pair of apertures 2584, such that the apertures2582, 2584 are sized to receive one of the second fasteners 2544.

The second roof mounting assembly 2546 is coupled to the first roofmounting assembly 2526 by the engagement of the fasteners 2544 in theslots 2572 in the second portion 2570 of the first bracket 2520 and theapertures 2582, 2584 in the first and second plates 2574, 2576,respectively. The pair of nuts 2578 is coupled to a respective one ofthe pair of fasteners 2544 to retain the fasteners 2544 in the slots2572 and apertures 2582, 2584. The first plate 2574 is positioned on afirst side of the second portion 2570 and the second plate 2576 ispositioned on a second side of the second portion 2570, such that thesecond portion 2570 is sandwiched between the first and second plates2574, 2576. In some embodiments, one or more of the second portion 2570,first plate 2574 and second plate 2576 include at least one texturedsurface. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second sides ofthe second portion 2570 include serrated portions and the first plate2574 includes a serrated portion, sized to engage the serratedportion(s) of the second portion 2570. The textured surface(s) canincrease friction and thereby strength the engagement between the secondportion 2570 and the first and second plates 2574, 2576.

The illustrated second plate 2576 includes a first flange 2586 and asecond flange 2588. The first flange 2586 extends substantially parallelto the flashing 2516 and the second flange extends substantiallyperpendicular to the flashing 2516. The illustrated first and secondflanges 2586, 2588 are sized and shaped to receive and support anL-shaped bar 2590. In some embodiments, the L-shaped bar 2590 is part ofa structure to be mounted to a roof. In other embodiments, the L-shapedbar 2590 is sized to support a structure to be mounted to a roof. Otherbars, brackets, rods, or other fixtures can be coupled to the secondroof mounting assembly 2546 and the L-shaped bar 2590 is provided by wayof example only.

The slots 2572 permit adjustment of the relative location of the firstand second plates 2574, 2576 and thus the L-shaped bar 2590 with respectto the flashing 2516. The length and location of the slots 2572 areselected at least partially based upon the desired range of heightsbetween the first flange 2586 and the flashing 2516. In a firstposition, the first flange 2586 is spaced above the flashing 2516 afirst height h1, and in a second position, the first flange 2586 isspaced above the flashing 2516 a second height h2, greater than thefirst height h1, see FIG. 93.

The embodiments described above and illustrated in the figures arepresented by way of example only and are not intended as a limitationupon the concepts and principles of the present invention. Variousfeatures and advantages of the invention are set forth in the followingclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A roof mounting system for mounting a solar panelto a roof, the roof mounting system comprising: a roof substrate; afirst roof mounting assembly including a first flashing positionable onthe substrate, the flashing defining a first surface, a second surfaceopposite the first surface and an aperture extending therethrough, afirst fastener extending through the aperture and into the roofsubstrate to couple the first flashing to the roof, and a first bracketcoupled to the first flashing; a second roof mounting assemblingincluding a second flashing positionable on the substrate, the flashingdefining a first surface, a second surface opposite the first surfaceand an aperture extending therethrough, a second fastener extendingthrough the aperture and into the roof substrate to couple the secondflashing to the roof, and a second bracket coupled to the secondflashing; and a track coupled to the first bracket by a third fastenerand coupled to the second bracket by a fourth fastener, wherein thetrack is operable to support a solar panel on the roof at a distanceabove the roof substrate.